South Bay : Pier to Be Dedicated as Landmark Today

Manhattan Beach has earned a place on the map, historically speaking. The city's pier will be dedicated as a state historic landmark today at the annual holiday pier lighting from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Built in 1917, the pier is the only one of the state's more than 50 piers to be given the historic status, according to the state Historic Resources Commission. The pier has received this distinction because it is the oldest standing steel-reinforced concrete pier on the Pacific Coast that remains in its original design, structure and environment.

Jim Wolfe, director of Manhattan Beach Parks and Recreation, said the state applied for recognition in 1984 but the request was denied because the pier had been altered. In 1992 the city spent $4.4 million on pier renovations to restore the roundhouse and original lighting at the end of the pier. The City Council voted last month to spend $500,000 of 1992 voter-approved Proposition A funds on improvements at the base of the pier.

"The pier is a focal point in this community," Wolfe said. "It brings recognition to the community."